Win tickets to Harp Ice Cold

The Harp Ice Cold Big Gig showcases the finest new and up-and-coming talent from across the island of Ireland each month in 2010. The VIP passes will each allow free entry to the Harp Ice Cold Big Gig, access to the Harp Ice Cold VIP area, free buffet and two complimentary pints of Harp Ice Cold per person.

The Vires - comprising Conall Molloy on vocals, Eamonn Donnelly on lead guitar, Tom Byrne on rhythm guitar, Ciaran Buchanan on bass and Glenn Kirk on drums – will be performing tracks that recently secured them a record deal with Audio Ill following a province wide competition.

27-year-old lead singer Conall is originally from Lurgan, but now lives in Belfast. The band have been together for almost two years, having got together through local music website, Fastfude.

Explaining the band’s name Conall said: “It’s more of a name we like the sound of. The word ‘vires’ is Latin for power, but it’s not about the meaning.”

He added: “Our backgrounds are so diverse, the bass player is into funk, the guitarist likes blues, I listen to bands like Radiohead and Jeff Buckley.

“People ask us to describe our sound, one of the reasons why we call it alternative is because we really try to create a sound that is our own," said Conall. "It’s a sound that is quirky and unusual. We aim to captivate people.”

The Vires have cut their teeth in Belfast, but have also played in Lurgan in the Ceili House and plan more gigs in the town.

Conall commented: “It’s very difficult to break through on the Belfast scene. Hopefully the Harp Ice Cold Big Gig is the beginning of the recognition of what we’re doing.”

Find out more about The Vires at www.myspace.com/thevires

Headliners for the Harp Ice Cold Big Gig are Black Bear Saloon, whose members hail from Larne and Portadown. They will be playing their heavy rock that amazed at the Glasgowbury festival in Draperstown last year, alongside some of their astounding new releases.

They will be supported by The Cahier Collection – an explosive and experimental rock act from Carrickfergus who released their first single, The Leading Role, in March.

For further information on The Harp Ice Cold Big Gig, become a fan of Harp at facebook.com/harp.

To enter the competition answer the following question: Where is the Harp Ice Cold Big Gig taking place?

Text your answer to 64343 remembering to start your message LMCOMP. Please include your name, address and daytime phone number. Texts costs 1 and entrants and guests must be over 18. The closing date for entries is noon on Wednesday, May 26.

Remember to drink responsibly.

Terms and conditions apply. To request the full terms and conditions write to Kerri Warnock, Smarts, 157-159 High Street, Holywood, BT18 9HU.